Urgent Action Required for Windows 10 Users
As of October 14, Microsoft will no longer support Windows 10, leaving users with a potential security risk if they do not take action. Despite the upcoming end of support, Statcounter reports that in September, 51% of Windows PCs in Germany were still running Windows 10. This exposes a significant number of systems to increased risks of cyberattacks due to the lack of future security updates.
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What Should You Do If You Still Use Windows 10?
Users who wish to avoid purchasing new hardware have two primary options: extending their update support or switching to a different operating system.
Extending Windows 10 Security Updates
For those not ready to upgrade or change systems, Microsoft offers a way to extend security updates for another year through the Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. Initially reserved for enterprise users, this program is now accessible to anyone logged in with a Microsoft account as an administrator on their device. If you don’t have a Microsoft account, you can create one quickly and at no cost. For those who choose not to create or use a Microsoft account, the extended updates are available for $30.
Switching Your Operating System
If upgrading isn’t an option or simply preferred, there are free alternatives like ChromeOS Flex and Linux.
Exploring ChromeOS Flex
ChromeOS Flex might be suitable for those comfortable with Google’s ecosystem and cloud-based applications. This system operates primarily through the cloud, meaning that the local hardware demands are minimal. For those interested, Google provides detailed instructions on how to create a bootable USB drive for installation.
Considering Linux: A Secure Alternative
Linux remains a popular choice for those seeking an alternative to Windows. It can be installed alongside Windows 10, allowing users to access programs not available on Linux while maintaining an option to switch environments. For installation, users need at least 20 GB of free space. Linux offers a variety of distributions, such as Ubuntu, which is known for its user-friendliness and robust community support.
Preparing for an Upgrade to Windows 11
If your hardware meets the requirements for Windows 11, upgrading could be a straightforward process. Microsoft likely has already prompted eligible users to upgrade. Those who have postponed this can initiate the upgrade via the system settings under ‘Update & Security.’ Alternatively, Microsoft provides a Media Creation Tool for those preferring a clean installation.
Before You Upgrade: Backing Up Your Data
Regardless of your choice to upgrade directly or perform a clean install, backing up your data is crucial. There are various ways to back up your files, including using external drives or cloud storage solutions like Microsoft’s OneDrive, although large files might require more space than what is freely available.
Installing a New Operating System
Whether you’re moving to Linux or another system, creating installation media is a necessary step. This can be done via a USB drive or DVD. For Linux, tools like Rufus can assist in creating a bootable USB stick using an ISO file downloaded from the distribution’s official site.
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Starting Fresh with Ubuntu
Once the installation media is ready, users can boot from it and explore Ubuntu without installing it. If satisfied, installation alongside Windows is an option, which allows users to dual-boot and select which operating system to use at startup.
By following these guidelines and considering your options carefully, you can ensure that your computer remains secure and functional beyond the support lifecycle of Windows 10.
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Ned Winslow is passionate about technological innovations. He writes about AI, cybersecurity, startups, and big tech companies. He makes technology understandable for everyone, with a critical eye on its impacts.
